🏡 Thinking of Selling Your Home Without a Realtor? Here's What You Need to Know

Hello! I'm Mark Drelich—former 🎧 radio host, 🎥 Big Brother Canada housemate, 🌍 world-traveling tour guide, and now full-time REALTOR® with Engel & Völkers Okanagan.

I’ve spent years mastering the art of communication and storytelling, and now I help people like you navigate one of life’s biggest milestones: selling your home.

If you're considering the For Sale by Owner (FSBO) route—🎉 kudos! It takes courage, planning, and a whole lot of hustle. That’s why I created this no-fluff guide to help you maximize your results and avoid costly mistakes.

💸 Understanding the Real Costs of FSBO

In an ideal world, your neighbor knocks with a briefcase of 💵 cash. In reality? It's a bit more complex.

Here's what you’ll want to budget for:

• 📢 Advertising ($550+)
  Utilize flat-fee MLS services, social media, Castanet, Kijiji, and Facebook Marketplace to get eyeballs on your property.
• 🔍 Home Inspection ($375+)
  Uncover potential deal-breakers early—and protect yourself legally.
  Even more importantly, it gives you leverage and control: when you already know what’s going to show up on the inspection report, you can address it in advance or negotiate confidently when offers come in. Surprises kill deals—this keeps you ahead of the curve.
• 📊 Market Analysis (Negotiable)
  Set the right price with an appraisal or market comp research. Pricing too high or too low can cost you big.
• 🛠️ Repairs & Upgrades ($700+)
  A fresh coat of paint or a minor kitchen refresh can make a major impact.
• ⚖️ Legal Help ($1,500+)
  Work with a real estate lawyer—not just a general notary. You’ll want legal review of contracts, offers, and disclosures.
• 🤝 Buyer's Agent Commission (Negotiable)
  Many FSBO sellers still offer a finder’s fee to the buyer’s agent to seal the deal.

✨ 7 Budget-Friendly Ways to Boost Your Home's Value

1. 🎨 Neutral Paint
   Soft greys and whites are universally appealing and make rooms feel larger.
2. 🏦 Create Open Space
   Rearrange furniture to open up the layout and improve flow.
3. 🏠 Stage It Like a Pro
   Whether virtually or in person, staging helps buyers see themselves in your space.
4. 🩵 Update the Floors
   Replace stained carpet, fix creaks, and consider sleek laminate for a modern look.
5. 🧼 Deep Clean
   Especially kitchens and bathrooms—sparkle and subtle scents go a long way.
6. 🌳 Curb Appeal
   Tidy landscaping, a painted front door, and trimmed hedges can impress before they step inside.
7. 📆 Depersonalize
   Take down family photos and niche décor so buyers can imagine their life in the home.

🔑 Expert-Backed Pro Tips You’ll Actually Use

• ⚖️ Work with a Real Estate Lawyer
  As soon as you receive an offer, have a qualified real estate lawyer ready to assist with conveyancing and contract review. It’s crucial for protecting your interests in a private sale.
• 📩 Review Every Offer Carefully
  If you’re choosing not to use a REALTOR®, have your lawyer review every single offer that comes through.
• 📄 Complete Your Property Disclosure Statement (PDS)
  This legally required document outlines known defects or issues. A complete, honest PDS builds trust and reduces legal risk.
• 📆 Get City or District Records
  Contact your municipality for all relevant files: permits, zoning, upgrades, and outstanding issues.
• 📅 Prepare Supporting Documents
  Have copies of:
  • Your latest property tax notice
  • Recent utility bill
  • Water and electricity bills
• 📍 Use a Quality Yard Sign
  Invest in a professional, clearly visible sign with your contact info and listing link.
• 🌞 Maximize Natural Light
  Use light curtains, clean windows, and add mirrors.
• 🚪 Upgrade Your Front Door
  A bold upgrade with high ROI—especially steel doors.
• 🌱 Go Green
  Smart thermostats and Energy Star appliances appeal to today’s buyers.
• 📸 Hire a Pro Photographer
  Great photos = more clicks and stronger offers.
• 🌐 List Smart
  Post your listing on Zillow, Craigslist, ForSaleByOwner.com, and FSBO-specific platforms.
• 💼 Offer Buyer Agent Commission
  A small incentive can increase traffic from agent-represented buyers.
• 📞 Be Ultra Responsive
  Respond quickly to inquiries—it shows professionalism and keeps leads hot.

🙌 Why I'm Sharing This With You—No Strings Attached

I know FSBO isn’t for everyone—but for some, it’s the right move. So why give this all away?

Because helping you helps me. I stay sharp, I stay informed, and hey—maybe down the road, you'll think of me when it's time to:

• Buy your next dream home 🏠
• Refer a friend who needs a solid agent 💼

At Engel & Völkers Okanagan, we don’t just list homes—we tell your story. When you’re ready, I’d love to help tell yours.


Contact me below if you felt this was useful info for you! 👇

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